As part of your efforts to live more sustainably and conserve environmental resources, managing household water usage has become a priority. One significant contributor to daily water consumption is the humble toilet. If you’ve opted for a low-flow water-conserving model, you may be wondering which type best suits your needs. This article aims to provide guidance on the various options available, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
The 7 Best Water Conserving Toilets
When it comes to toilets, homeowners and builders alike face a multitude of options on the market. From traditional flush toilets like the KOHLER K-3988-0 Wellworth Toilet and Swiss Madison Well Made Forever St. Tropez Toilet, to more eco-friendly choices such as the American Standard Option Dual Flush Elongated Toilet and WOODBRIDGE Dual Flush Toilet, there’s a wide range of products to consider.
In addition to these options, some manufacturers are offering more innovative solutions like the KOHLER K-3817-96 Memoirs Stately Comfort Toilet, which focuses on comfort and style. And for those looking to make an even greater impact on the environment, there’s the Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet, a self-contained composting toilet that eliminates the need for water altogether. Ultimately, our top pick is the TOTO Drake Toilet, known for its efficiency and performance.
Our Top Pick for the Best Water Conserving Toilet
When it comes to water-conserving toilets, our top recommendation is the TOTO Drake Toilet. This model stands out for its exceptional MaP rating, making it not only efficient but also highly effective in terms of performance. Additionally, the Sanagloss coating provides an added layer of protection against bacteria, mold, and mildew, ensuring a hygienic toilet experience. To explore more about this top-notch option, check out the current pricing on Amazon.
Choosing the Right Water Conserving Toilet
When it comes to selecting the perfect toilet for your eco-friendly abode, several factors come into play. For instance, you’ll want to think about your daily usage habits and how that might impact your choice. Perhaps you’re a large family or frequently host guests, in which case a high-capacity toilet with excellent flushing power would be a good fit.
Basic Construction
When it comes to choosing a toilet, one crucial decision is whether to opt for a single-piece or two-piece model. While the former may be easier to construct, its sheer weight can make installation a daunting task even for experienced DIY enthusiasts. As such, most manufacturers strongly recommend hiring a professional plumber for installation purposes.
Two-piece toilets, on the other hand, offer greater accessibility in terms of installation, although their internal design might pose cleaning challenges down the line. Before making your final selection, you should also consider the bowl’s shape – traditional round or elongated designs are available, each catering to unique user preferences.
Furthermore, it is essential to determine the ‘rough-in’ measurement before purchasing a toilet.
This refers to the distance between the center of the flange and the wall, with standard measurements typically ranging from 10 to 14 inches, although some may prefer the more common 12-inch mark.
Flush Options
When it comes to eco-friendly toilets, there are three primary options: single flush, dual flush, and pressure-assisted flush. Single-flush toilets, as mandated by law, use a minimum of 1.6 gallons of water per flush. On the other hand, dual-flush toilets offer users the flexibility to customize their flushing experience based on the type of waste being disposed of. Solid waste requires at least 1.28-1.
6 gallons for proper flushing, whereas liquid waste can be flushed with a significantly reduced amount of around 0.8-1.1 gallons. Pressure-assisted flush toilets utilize compressed air to enhance the flushing mechanism, offering the added benefits of minimizing water consumption (typically requiring only one gallon or less) and reducing external condensation by storing water within a plastic reservoir.
Standard Ratings
While entry-level toilets may seem like an affordable option, they often require multiple flushes to effectively clear waste. However, investing in a higher-quality toilet can pay off in the long run. One way to gauge a toilet’s performance is through Maximum Performance (MaP) ratings. These scores take into account test results and reviews from plumbers, providing an overall rating for each toilet’s ability to handle solid waste.
Specifically, look for toilets that have passed the 500g test using soybean paste. Another reliable source of information is WaterSense, a program in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency that verifies water-saving claims. When shopping for a new toilet, prioritize those that meet these standards and earn top marks from MaP.
Do They Really Work?
In 1994, a major shift took place in toilet technology when new regulations reduced the standard flush volume from up to 7 gallons to just 1.6 gallons. In response, manufacturers adapted their designs to meet this new requirement, but surprisingly, they didn’t reexamine how waste was propelled. This led to the emergence of low-flow toilets, which earned a notorious reputation during this period.
However, over time, manufacturers have made significant strides in refining their design approach to accommodate lower water flow rates. Today’s water-conserving toilets are far more effective at handling waste removal without requiring multiple flushes, marking a major improvement from their low-flow predecessors.
What About No Water At All?
While discussing water-conserving toilets, it’s impossible to overlook the alternative option of composting toilets. Gone are the days of primitive outhouses or portable toilets; modern composting toilets have evolved to be clean, odorless, and surprisingly familiar in design – they’re just like regular toilets, minus the need for water. At their core, composting toilets rely on anaerobic decomposition processes to break down waste.
A significant portion of human waste is comprised of water (approximately 90%), which is expertly evaporated away. The end result is a pathogen-free, safe-to-use compost.
7 Best Water Conserving Toilets – Reviews
KOHLER K-3988-0 Wellworth Toilet
The KOHLER K-3988-0 Wellworth Toilet boasts a unique dual-flush system, offering two options for efficient flushing. The 1.1-gallon and 1.6-gallon flushes cater to different needs, with the former saving 30% water compared to the latter. This translates to an impressive annual savings of up to 4,000 gallons. Notably, the lever is situated on the side of the toilet, allowing for top storage or decorative space.
The class five flushing action ensures effective waste handling, while the two-piece canister flush valve delivers consistent performance and water usage. On the plus side, this design offers a traditional side flush release lever and a two-piece canister flush valve. However, one potential drawback is that the 1.1-gallons per flush may still be slightly higher than some competing options.
Nonetheless, the KOHLER K-3988-0 Wellworth Toilet remains an attractive choice for those seeking water efficiency.
Swiss Madison Well Made Forever St. Tropez Toilet
The Swiss Madison Well Made Forever St. Tropez Toilet boasts an innovative dual-flush system that efficiently balances flushing power and water conservation, utilizing a mere 0.8/1.28 gallons per flush. This impressive feat is made possible by the incorporation of Vortex technology, which not only keeps the toilet bowl clean but also prevents the spread of germs and bacteria to surrounding surfaces.
The toilet’s ergonomically designed seat provides an elevated comfort level, while its elongated bowl offers ample space for a comfortable sitting experience. Furthermore, the soft-close, quick-release mechanism ensures a quiet operation that won’t disturb those around you.
This sleek and modern-looking toilet is crafted from durable glazed ceramic and is available in both glossy white and matte black finishes.
While it may not be without its drawbacks – installation can be complicated, requiring professional assistance – the benefits far outweigh the cons.
Some notable advantages include the high-performance dual-flush system that saves water, the comfortable design, and the quiet operation. However, users should be aware of the need to perform a double flush for solid waste disposal. As with any product, it’s essential to weigh these pros and cons before making an informed purchasing decision.
American Standard Option Dual Flush Elongated Toilet
The American Standard Option Dual Flush Elongated Toilet boasts a unique dual-flush design, offering users the option to use either 1.0-gallons or 1.6-gallons of water per flush. A notable feature is the two-button release mechanism located on top, which is particularly convenient for those with narrower bathrooms.
Additionally, the toilet features Everclean antimicrobial surfaces that actively inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew, reducing the occurrence of stains and unpleasant odors. While it has its drawbacks, this toilet’s benefits include a compact size that still accommodates most users, efficient water usage, and an antimicrobial surface that promotes hygiene.
However, some users have reported issues with customer service and porcelain quality, which may be worth considering when making a purchasing decision.
WOODBRIDGE Dual Flush Toilet
The Woodbridge Dual Flush Toilet boasts a high-efficiency dual-flush mechanism that uses only 1.0/1.6 gallons of water per flush, earning it WaterSense certification and promising up to 16,500 gallons of water savings annually compared to traditional 3.5-gallon toilets. Its sleek one-piece design features an elongated bowl with no sharp corners or grooves, measuring 19 inches in height.
The toilet’s Siphon Flushing Design is both powerful and remarkably quiet, eliminating the risk of clogs or leaks. Additionally, it comes equipped with a high-end soft-closing seat that boasts a durable stainless steel hinge and quick-release design for effortless maintenance. While its pros outweigh its cons, some users may find the 19-inch bowl height too tall, necessitating careful consideration before purchase.
In terms of performance, however, the Woodbridge Dual Flush Toilet excels, making it an attractive option for those seeking both water conservation and a reliable flushing system.
KOHLER K-3817-96 Memoirs Stately Comfort Toilet
The Kohler K-3817-96 Memoirs Stately Comfort Toilet boasts an impressive combination of style and functionality. Its design, reminiscent of crown molding, adds a touch of elegance to any bathroom. But what truly sets it apart is its performance. With a 1.28-gallon flush, this toilet has the potential to save up to 16,500 gallons per year compared to traditional 1.6-gallon efficiency toilets.
The elongated bowl and reduced exposed seal material also contribute to fewer leaks, minimizing the risk of water waste. Water flows into the bowl from all sides, ensuring a more effective flush and reducing residue left behind. While this toilet has its advantages, it’s worth noting that it may not be suitable for everyone. Some users have reported issues with the tank lid fitting properly, and in certain situations, a second flush may be necessary to fully remove solid waste.
Nevertheless, the benefits of this toilet make it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance, low-maintenance solution. Amazon offers competitive pricing for this product.
Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet
A comprehensive water-conserving toilet review would not be complete without exploring a completely waterless toilet system. While composting toilets might seem daunting, modern versions have evolved to be user-friendly and odorless. The Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet is an exemplary model, designed by two sailors who sought a solution that was easier to install, intuitive, and self-contained.
Its innovative design features separate tanks for liquid and solid waste, effectively minimizing odors. Most users report that the solid waste resembles regular dirt when emptied from the tank. The pros of this toilet system include its water-conserving capabilities, self-contained installation, affordability (under $1000), and lack of unpleasant smells.
However, some users may find composting toilets intimidating, require lifting to remove the solid waste tray, or consider the overall cost higher than standard toilets.
TOTO Drake Toilet
The TOTO Drake Toilet is a WaterSense certified toilet that boasts a Sanagloss finish to significantly reduce bacteria, mold, and mildew. Its larger water surface and unique flushing mechanism cycle more water around the bowl per flush, resulting in reduced cleaning requirements for users. The 16-inch bowl height meets ADA standards, although it may be less accessible for shorter individuals or children.
This toilet excels in terms of performance, meeting WaterSense requirements and boasting a MaP rating of 900g, well above the industry standard. Furthermore, TOTO’s commitment to excellent customer service is evident through its comprehensive one-year warranty. This ensures a seamless installation experience and ongoing support for users.
The toilet’s advantages include a larger water surface that minimizes cleaning needs, the Sanagloss coating that inhibits bacterial growth, and high MaP rating for effective waste removal. However, it’s essential to note that the Sanagloss finish may be compromised by using harsh cleaners.
Check the price on Amazon
Our Top Pick for the Best Water Conserving Toilet
When it comes to finding the most water-conserving toilet option, our top recommendation is the TOTO Drake Toilet. This toilet stands out from the rest due to its exceptional MaP rating, which signifies not only its high efficiency but also impressive performance. Additionally, the Sanagloss coating provides an added layer of protection against bacteria, mold, and mildew, giving you peace of mind with every flush. For a closer look at this top pick’s price, be sure to check it out on Amazon.
